“We try to listen and respond to the community with events that appeal to their interests and sensibilities,” said Terri Norman, marketing director for LaCenterra. “For example, we present a ‘Mondays with Mommy,’ program that’s geared specifically towards preschoolers, parents and playgroups. When we plan an event like the July 4 Big Backyard Barbecue or a summer concert, we take a more all-encompassing approach.”

There’s a high demand for family events in the area, Norman said.

“Katy is such a great family-focused community,” she said. “ The most popular events are really those that allow mom, dad, children and extended family to have fun - together.”

Terri Bieber, the executive director of Katy ARTREACH, said partnering with developers has been vital to fostering the growth of the arts in the area. Since the Rancher area is unincorporated, traditional funding isn’t available.

“Who funds cultural events? In most areas, its the city,” Bieber said. “Here we have the developers.”

The Villagio on Westheimer Parkway hosts ARTReach’s gallery. The Marcel Group has donated the space for the organization, which also holds receptions for artists and its Texas Music Project at the site.

Despite the large number of new residents here, Bieber said the art scene is still in its nascent stages. Groups such as hers, which focus heavily on exposing underserved populations to art, music and drama; the Katy Visual Performing Arts Center and the Katy Area Artists are planting strong roots in the community.

“It’s still young,” she said. “It still requires a lot of community support.”

Bieber envisions a strong “cultural tourism” component of the local economy, where visitors are surprised and delighted to find myriad fine arts and cultural opportunities in the area.

Giving back

And while entertainment options are increasing, so are chances to get involved with the community.

Kathy Renfrow, executive director of Volunteer Fort Bend, reaches out to local nonprofits to connect them with volunteers looking to help others.

Renfrow works with five to 10 nonprofit groups in the area, and is always looking out for more. She said volunteering is becoming more and more popular.

“I think it’s growing,” she said. “Compared to say Sugar Land, it’s not as big, but it is growing.”

There are lots of opportunities to volunteer in the area. Local hospitals, nursing homes and facilities like the Krause Center and Brookwood are always looking for volunteers.